We choose materials that minimise environmental harm, require fewer resources to produce and can be reused or recycled at the end of their life.
Stainless steel is at the heart of Elephant Box and our material of choice for reusable food and drink products.
We use certified food-grade 304 stainless steel because it’s durable, long-lasting and safe for everyday use. Unlike plastic, it won’t stain, retain odours or leach chemicals into food and drink.
From an environmental perspective, stainless steel is exceptionally durable and infinitely recyclable without losing quality, making it one of the best materials for long-lasting reusable products.
We use food-grade silicone in our lids and seals to create durable, leakproof products.
Silicone is flexible, long-lasting and more hard-wearing than many plastic alternatives, making it ideal for reusable products designed to last for years.
Unlike conventional plastics, silicone does not break down into microplastics in the same way and can be recycled through specialist programmes such as Terracycle.
Cork is a highly renewable natural material harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without harming the tree itself. Regular harvesting helps cork forests absorb more CO₂ while supporting some of the world’s richest forest biodiversity and providing habitats for rare and endangered species.
At the end of its life, cork is biodegradable and recyclable.
We use cork in the carry case for the spork and our coffee cup sleeve.
Borosilicate glass is strong, durable and highly resistant to thermal shock, making it ideal for long-term everyday use. Unlike plastic, it won’t absorb odours, stains or flavours and it does not release chemicals into food or drink.
Its durability means products last for years, helping reduce waste and avoid frequent replacement. Borosilicate glass is also fully recyclable and can be reused again and again without losing quality.
We use BPA-free plastic in a small number of components, including some sports and coffee caps and the trigger for our reusable spray bottle.
Where suitable alternatives don’t yet exist, we believe durable reusable products with limited plastic components are preferable to disposable or fully plastic alternatives.
We use plastic sparingly and where it improves functionality, durability or safety.
Our products undergo regular independent testing to ensure they comply with European food safety standards.
